beneficiary & mission Statements

Transgender Law Center

Mission

Founded in 2002, Transgender Law Center (TLC) has grown into the largest trans-specific, trans-led organization in the United States working to set all people free. We champion the right of all transgender and gender-nonconforming people to make their own choices and live freely, safely, and authentically. Prioritizing BIPOC, disabled, and HIV+ communities, we advance community-driven strategies that harness trans knowledge, power, and joy to ensure that we all not only survive but thrive at all ages and phases of life.

Vision

We envision a world where transgender liberation intersects with racial, economic, and social justice. In this future, every person, regardless of identity or background, has the autonomy to define and pursue their own path to happiness and fulfillment. We believe that our liberation is interconnected and that none of us are free until all of us are free.

Justice

We are committed to dismantling oppressive systems to tangibly impact the lives of our communities’ most vulnerable, valuing all identities, and working to ensure no one is left behind.

Empowerment

We empower transgender and gender nonconforming people in leading movements for social change, centering our voices and experiences.

Self-Determination

We demand the freedom to define ourselves and our futures, while actively supporting our communities in advocating for themselves to live fully, freely, and authentically.

Integrity

We operate with accountability and transparency, guided by community-driven principles, and committed to ethical practices in all endeavors internal and external.

Compassionate Action

We embody fierce compassion—working to extend understanding, patience, kindness, and support to ourselves, our community, and broader movements for justice and equity, promoting healing from harm.

Beneficiary & Mission